What: Eddie’s White Wonder is a deciduous tree, an unusual hybrid that’s a cross between the Western dogwood, Cornus nuttallii, and the Eastern species, Cornus florida. Its large white flowers open in early spring with abundant broad overlapping bracts.
Why plant it: The tree’s narrow frame and abundant flowers make it a perfect garden choice. Also, it has shown resistance to dogwood anthracnose, a common foliage disease.
Where: The dogwood prefers a rich well-drained or sandy soil, but will tolerate clay if the drainage is adequate. Provide a location with full sun to light or open shade. In too much shade or in areas without good air circulation, foliage disease can be a problem. Once established it only needs occasional watering during dry weather. Little pruning is needed. Overpruning can ruin the layered branching pattern.
Actual size: A 10-year-old woody plant or a 5-year-old perennial will grow to 20 feet with a spread of 15 feet.
Learn more: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
